WH Calls Hutchinson to Apologize for DNC’s Mockery

The Democratic National Committee couldn’t resist sending Asa Hutchinson out with a parting shot as he dropped out of the 2024 Republican primary.

“This news comes as a shock to those of us who could’ve sworn he had already dropped out,” said DNC spokesperson Sarafina Chitika in the statement.

The remark was enough to prompt a call from White House chief of staff Jeff Zientz to the former Arkansas governor, apologizing on behalf of his party.

Hutchinson finished last in the Iowa caucuses on Monday, having failed to catch on with Republicans with his primarily anti-former President Donald Trump messaging. Hutchinson was one of the first to announce his candidacy but never rose above single-digit support among conservative voters.

White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre confirmed during her press briefing on Wednesday afternoon that Hutchinson has received an apology call and that Biden respects the former governor as a “man of principles.”

“President Biden has deep respect for Gov. Hutchinson and admires the race he ran,” Jean-Pierre told reporters. Zients reiterated Biden’s respect for Hutchinson during their call on Wednesday.

Hutchinson was the recipient of much criticism from Republicans prior to leaving office due to his coordination with the Biden White House on coronavirus vaccinations and the overall pandemic response.